Don't forget those Talented Teens in the Arts nominations!

Republican photo by DON TREEGERPalmer High's Valerie Ochs was among last year's Talented Teens in the Arts.

The Republican is pleased to announce its annual Talented Teens in the Arts program, established to recognize high school students for their achievements in music, dance, theater, and art.

The selected students will be featured online at MassLive.Com and in a special in-paper section later this spring.

The section profiles students, particularly juniors and seniors, who have been recognized for their proficiency in their chosen art-related disciplines.

Examples of such recognition might include awards from established organizations and competitions like the Mass Music Educators and Richard Neal Art Competition, as well as scholarships, public exhibitions, and the like.

Teachers and studios may also nominate students with a very high skill level who have not yet garnered such recognition, or those that are active in a diverse range of arts-related activities. Any student enrolled at a high school in Hampden, Franklin, or Hampshire County is eligible for nomination.

Because Talented Teens has become such a popular program, teachers are aske to nominate no more than three teens in one category (drama, dance, music, art).

Teachers should coordinate with colleagues so as to not exceed the recommended number of entries from each school.

Teachers area asked to refrain from nominating any student that has already been profiled as a Talented Teen in the past.

This year’s nomination form is below _ all forms must be returned by Wednesday, April 27, 2011 to NIE/Talented Teens, The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103 (fx: 413-788-1089, email: nie@repub.com).

Thanks very much for your help - if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 413-788-1279 or at nie@repub.com.